The prophet wrote, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news…” (Isaiah 52:7) But what about those in the valleys?
Jesus once took three of his apostles onto a high mountain and miracles took place. Elijah and Moses appeared, Jesus was transfigured, and the Father spoke clearly saying, “This is my Son whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” But then they came down from the mountain. Jesus was not shining any more; Moses and Elijah were no where to be found; and God’s voice seemed silent. There in the valley, life’s problems quickly appeared: a distressed father, a boy being tormented by a demon, and faithless disciples. It seemed more glorious on the mountain. (See Matthew 17:1-21)
In some ways a mission trip is like being on the mountain top. Here in Ecuador, we have met precious brothers and sisters in Christ, we have taught and played with children in poor villages, and we have tried to serve local churches. It has been a great week and we appreciate your prayers. But now we look forward to returning home… back to the valley where we all need grace and power and love and close fellowship with Jesus to live the good news.
Here is a picture taken from high in the Andes of Riobamba where we spent the nights. ‘Rio’ means ‘river’ in Spanish and ‘bamba’ means ‘valley’ in the Quechuan language.
These are Quechuan children we met in one of the mountain villages.
“Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding banquet is ready, but those I invited did not deserve to come. Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you can find.’ So the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, both good and bad, and the wedding hall was filled with guests.” Matthew 22:8-10